Promised Land State Park offers dedicated horse camping facilities within 45 miles of Hackettstown. The Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area contains sites sized for horses and trailers with access to over 50 miles of trails. Most equestrian sites provide electrical connections ranging from 30-50 amp service, though water hookups can be limited during certain seasons. Trail difficulty varies from beginner-friendly flat terrain to more challenging routes with elevation changes.
What to do
Trail rides through state forest land: At Stokes State Forest, riders access 63 miles of marked trails including connections to the Appalachian Trail. "We did a small part of the Appalachian trail while there (about 15 miles). Would love to go back when I'm in better shape and try the whole trail," notes Stephanie T.
Kayaking on clear lakes: Several equestrian campgrounds sit near lakes suitable for paddling when not riding. "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families," writes a visitor to Stokes State Forest Lake Ocquittunk.
Blueberry picking while boating: Summer visitors can combine water activities with foraging. "You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond — plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," suggests Dan X. about Mohican Outdoor Center.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Horse camping areas typically offer more space than standard sites. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," notes E.M.V. about Stokes State Forest.
Clean facilities for humans and horses: Riders appreciate well-maintained bathrooms after long trail rides. "The bathrooms were clean and water was hot in the shower," reports Angie G. about Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area. This cleanliness extends to equestrian facilities as well.
Quiet environment: Many equestrian sites are positioned away from busier camping areas. "I stayed at the Beechwood location at the Promised Land state park and despite the constant rain, it was quiet and peaceful. You could only ever hear the wildlife," shares Maze M. about their camping experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse campgrounds near Hackettstown require advance planning. "We went tent camping for 3 nights, easy to get to, bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other. Firewood was available in the area. But not much for stores so pack everything in before," advises Siobhan D. about Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area.
Site terrain considerations: Not all equestrian sites have ideal footing. "The ground is moderately rocky, so there may be some slight troubles getting tent stakes in the ground," notes Christina H. about Mountainview Campground, something horse owners should consider when setting up portable corrals.
Seasonal availability: Some horse-friendly campgrounds have limited seasons. "Went camping in late October, when a lot of the other parks are closed. Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized," reports Tiffany K. about camping late in the season.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dual recreation opportunities: Sites near both trails and water provide options for non-riders. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, "You can bring a camper, tent, or use one of the cabins. Many sites have a lovely water view of the reservoir. Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," explains Jocelyn G.
Consider cabins for mixed camping needs: Some locations offer cabin options alongside equestrian sites. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend," shares W L. about Stokes State Forest cabins.
Plan for weather variations: Mountain elevations can bring unexpected conditions. "We went in November when there was a light rain that turned into a thunderstorm with hail and sleet! It was certainly an adventure," recounts W L., highlighting the need for weather preparedness when camping with horses and family.
Tips from RVers
Check equestrian site specifications: Not all horse sites accommodate large RVs. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P. about Spruce Run Recreation Area, a consideration especially important when towing horse trailers.
Water and power availability varies: Different equestrian areas offer different hookup levels. "We luckily have some solar so we can go for awhile without running the generator. We fill our fresh water tank for and bring drinking water," explains Ruette W. about dealing with limited hookups.
Site positioning matters: Horse campers should consider proximity to trails versus hookups. "There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV. It's kind of worth it," suggests Ruette W.
Guide
